The project has been designed as a sector loan4
to support the strategic priorities of the
Philippine Development Plan (PDP) and the DENR’s framework plan for environment and
natural resource management in four representative upper river basins (URBs) encompassing
23 watersheds.5,6 The project will promote the adoption of ecosystem-based management in
these URBs; support the rehabilitation, restoration, and protection of degraded forest areas in
the component watersheds; and support community-based livelihood measures in 1.13 million
hectares of upland areas with an estimated population of 2.7 million. Approximately 220,000
household beneficiaries in 9 provinces are targeted. The project supports ADB’s commitment to
environmentally sustainable growth and inclusive economic growth under Strategy 2020, and is
in line with ADB’s operational emphasis on sound environmental management. 7